The Salvation Army is partnering with Astro Doughnuts and Fried Chicken to celebrate National Doughnut Day on June 1 at Astro Doughnuts and Fried Chicken in both Metro Center, DC, and Falls Church, Virginia. The Falls Church location is near Idylwood Plaza. Proceeds from the sales of Blueberry Sour Cream “Muffin” Doughnuts on June 1 will benefit local Salvation Army programs.

The Salvation Army created National Doughnut Day in honor of its rich tradition which started in 1938 at a Salvation Army fundraiser in Chicago. Doughnut Day became a part of American tradition as female Salvation Army volunteers, better known as doughnut lassies, started frying doughnuts during the Great Depression and World War I to bring spiritual and emotional support to the public and soldiers. They made do with what they had and fried the doughnuts in soldiers’ helmets. This year we will feature Salvation Army volunteers dressed as doughnut lassies in all three locations.

The Salvation Army assisted more than 66,890 people throughout the last year by providing a diverse range of services. Employees and volunteers provide compassionate care to everyone in need of help without discrimination. We offer meals and services to the homeless and emergency assistance to individuals and families (rent, utilities, and food). Additionally, we provide transitional and supportive living assistance for mothers and their children and comprehensive addiction treatment for adults. The Salvation Army responds to natural and other disasters by providing emergency relief to first responders and all those in need of support during times of crisis. Learn more or donate today by visiting us at SalvationArmyNCA.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Connect with us and join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube using keyword SalArmyNCA.